CHILDREN planted saplings in Andover as part of a pledge to help plant a million trees in the UK.

Around 50 children and young people from six schools joined the Plant-forthe- Planet Climate Justice Academy, the first in the South of England.

They were reunited after their successful woodland planting in November to learn about climate change and the role played by trees in sequestering carbon and maintaining a healthy environment.

The 45 British native trees planted as part of the academy in the grounds of the newly refurbished Portway Stadium in Andover will also contribute to Britain’s Big Tree Plant.

Working with Andover Trees United and North Wessex Downs AONB The Woodland Trust and The Earth Restoration Service many planting activities will continue to take place over the coming years, as the children work towards meeting their goal of planting 10,000 trees in the Andover area by 2021.

Worldrenowned ethologist, leading environmentalist and UN Messenger of Peace Dr Jane Goodall, DBE also attended to help with the tree planting and to offer her support to the children and their endeavours.

During the day the young trainees were led in a series of activities by ambassadors from St Christopher’s School, Letchworth.

St Christopher’s was the first school to host a UK Academy in 2011 as part of the UK’s first Climate Week.

It is an aim of Plant-for-the- Planet that young people should teach other young people through presentations, world games, public speaking training and discussion.

The day culminated in action planning and a final presentation given by the newly trained ambassadors to parents and invited guests.